Bunnahabhain Distillery — Islay Single Malt Whisky

Bunnahabhain Distillery (Scottish Gaelic: Taigh-staile Bun na h-Abhainne) is a Scotch whisky distillery located near Port Askaig on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. It was founded in 1881 and is currently owned by the Distell Group Limited, a subsidiary of Heineken N.V. The distillery is notable for its unique architectural style, which resembles a Bordeaux watchtower or castle (castel).

History

Bunnahabhain, pronounced "Boon-a-havun," is one of the milder single malt Islay whiskies, which distinguishes it from the typically robust and heavily peated spirits produced on the island. The distillery was initially owned by the Islay Distillery Company but was taken over by the Highland Distilleries Company in 1887.

In the early 1960s, Bunnahabhain expanded its operations by incorporating another water source and increasing its number of pot stills from two to four. During this period, the distillery also ceased its traditional floor malting operations. Bunnahabhain has experienced several closures throughout its history, including from 1982 to 1984 and from October 2002 to January 2003.

Since the late 1990s, Bunnahabhain has been producing some peated whisky annually, accounting for approximately 20% of its production. This peated spirit is used for blending purposes and for a single malt bottling.

Modern Developments

The distillery was acquired by Burn Stewart in 2003, which later merged with Distell in 2014. Today, Bunnahabhain is one of nine active distilleries on Islay. The distillery village, established to house its workers, continues to be a significant aspect of the Bunnahabhain community.

Products

Bunnahabhain produces a range of single malt whiskies, including:

• Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old (ABV 46.3%)
• Bunnahabhain 18 Year Old (ABV 46.3%)
• Bunnahabhain 25 Year Old (ABV 46.3%)
• Bunnahabhain 30 Year Old (ABV 46.3%)
• Bunnahabhain 40 Year Old (ABV 41.9%)
• Stiuireadair (ABV 46.3%)
• Toiteach A Dhà (ABV 46.3%)

The distillery also produces a variety of limited editions and special releases that reflect its commitment to quality and innovation.

Notable Managers

• Mr. Grant (1886–1902)
• James Falconer (from 1902)
• Bob Gordon (late 1970s)
• Douglas Eccles (1985)
• Sandy Lawtie (1985–1989)
• Hamish Proctor (1989–1998)
• John MacLellan (1998–2009)
• Andrew Brown (2011–present)